Senate Majority Leader Ellen M. Corbett (D-San Leandro) has been awarded the 2011 Legislative Champion of Accessibility by Disability Rights California. The award honors leaders who advocate for equality for persons with disabilities.

"As is often the case, the passage of a bill or a win in the courtroom doesn't eliminate discrimination," Corbett said. "I will continue to fight for the disabled and their rights towards full equality."

As a lawyer and educator, Corbett has long devoted herself to helping others, first as a community activist and then rising through the ranks of elected office. Throughout her three decades of public service, Corbett has made it her priority to fight for the rights of all Californians and ensure equal access for all citizens.

As past-chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a current member, Corbett works to make sure laws are fair and effective. Among her most notable legislation was SB 1608 - a major effort to improve compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The bill provided better tools toward ADA compliance and a venue to educate all Californians about its requirements and importance.

Known as a champion of consumer rights, Corbett has been honored over the years by several disability and consumer advocate groups. They include the Consumer Federation of California, California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform, Consumer Attorneys of California, California Public Interest Research Group, Community Resources for Independence, Alameda Justice Center, Consumer Action and California Congress of Seniors.

A lifelong resident of the East Bay, Corbett served in the state Assembly 1998-2004. She was elected to the Senate in 2006 and re-elected in 2010. Corbett represents the 10th Senate District, which covers the East Bay and includes the cities of San Leandro, Fremont, Hayward, Union City, Pleasanton, Milpitas, Newark and part of San Jose, as well as the communities of Castro Valley, San Lorenzo and Sunol.